Chiropractor Care for Pets: What You Need to Know

Chiropractic care is one of several complementary or alternative therapies for pets with specific health issues, in addition to conventional vet care, massage, acupuncture, Chinese medicines and herbs, and homeopathy. Pet parents trying to find holistic solutions for their animals are increasingly turning to chiropractic care.

Start by consulting your veterinarian.

Before pursuing chiropractic care, your vet needs to check and diagnose your pet, as some health conditions may not be appropriate for this treatment method. Your veterinarian may suggest pet imaging, blood testing, ultrasound, or other diagnostics depending on the seriousness of your pet’s disease. After that, if your veterinarian recommends chiropractic treatment, they should be able to recommend a certified veterinary chiropractor in your area.

Only licensed chiropractors can treat pets.

To understand the differences in biomechanics and neuromusculoskeletal function between humans and animals, chiropractors who treat animals need specialized training in both chiropractic care and animal anatomy. For the sake of pet patients, the Animal Chiropractic Certification Committee (ACCC) has set up a certification process for veterinary professionals to become eligible to provide pet chiropractic treatment.

Chiropractic care is generally safe.

This treatment entails moving the joints along the spinal cord and limbs to relieve stress and pain caused by little subluxations. When conducted correctly, there is little risk to the patient, and side effects, such as drowsiness or brief discomfort, are minimal. However, severe damage can occur if the adjustments are applied with excessive force or at the incorrect angle. These risks can be lowered by having your dog or cat treated by a trained pet chiropractic specialist.

Chiropractic care can treat a variety of conditions.

While the majority of pets who see a chiropractic practitioner have problems like intervertebral disc disease, hip dysplasia, or chronic pain, pets with nerve, immunological, or other complications can also benefit from chiropractic care. For instance, chiropractic adjustments may help pets with fecal or urinary incontinence regain control of these functions. 

Pets with separation anxiety, certain skin disorders such as lick granulomas, or sleeping troubles may also benefit from this treatment. If you have any concerns about whether chiropractic care is appropriate for your pet, consult your veterinarian or visit websites like https://www.diabloviewvet.com/site/veterinary-services-pleasant-hill/internal-medicine for other treatment options.

Most pets do not find chiropractic care to be painful.

Most pets are responsive to chiropractic care because they know that the minor adjustments to the joints are meant to alleviate discomfort rather than cause pain. But you may be reluctant to rush in and help if your pet is in a lot of aches or if this is their first time getting treatment. After a few trips to the vet, this should subside as your pet starts to feel better.

How can you find a chiropractor for your pet?

It is essential to remember that a vet chiropractic specialist can only treat your pet with your veterinarian’s approval. This ensures that the most excellent standards of care are fulfilled and that everybody engaged in your pet’s health is keeping in touch, which is why a recommendation is such an important step in the process. If you want to try a chiropractic technique with your pet, start by asking your vet for a referral.